Moulton Chapel, Wesleyan Methodist Church, Lincolnshire
The village takes its name from the former Anglican chapel of ease dedicated to St James, which is now the parish church. The place has also been known as Moulton St James and Moulton Chapel End.
Still standing on Fengate is the first Wesleyan chapel from 1812, given as ‘Chapel End’ on old circuit plans. It was retained as a Sunday school and general hall following the building of the present (linked) chapel.
Stones for the new building were laid in August 1902. On completion the following year, the chapel, costing £540 and seating 130, was dedicated by the Rev C Newman. The grand opening preceded a tea in Mr Williamson’s paddock – Methodism owed a lot to those who freely loaned their paddocks, barns and marquees!
John R Baker, a builder of Moulton Chapel (later becoming Sunday school superintendent and circuit steward), designed and built the edifice. He constructed an almost identical chapel for Northgate Primitives in West Pinchbeck.
Another similar design was by Stamford builder William Hinson for the Wesleyans at Kirton Holme in 1903, although it happened to be built by non other than John Baker. Both men were stalwarts of the Wesleyan cause.
Following Methodist union in 1932, the Wesleyan title was dropped, and to differentiate between the two chapels in the village it was known as Fengate Road Methodist – the ex-United Methodist became Eaugate Road Methodist until its closure in 1946.
That the chapel remains open for regular services and events, including the annual flower festival, is testimony to the good stewardship of those who care for it. Originally in the Spalding Wesleyan (later Methodist)Circuit, it is now a member of the South Holland Circuit.
Sources include
Wesleyan Returns of Accommodation 1873
Spalding Guardian 2nd August 1902
Spalding Guardian 11th July 1903
Boston Guardian 12th December 1903
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